During a critical meeting of the Oregon State Legislature's Joint Committee on Ways and Means, urgent calls for funding were made to protect essential services for children and individuals with disabilities. Advocates emphasized the dire need for financial support for children's advocacy centers, which are facing a significant funding cliff that threatens their ability to provide vital services to child abuse victims.

Sage Tavist, representing SEIU and Southern Oregon University, urged lawmakers to approve an additional $276 million for public university funding. Tavist highlighted the importance of this investment in strengthening Oregon's higher education system, especially in light of economic disruptions caused by advancements in artificial intelligence. "We cannot afford to wait for federal leadership when the needs of our students and our workforce are immediate and growing," Tavist stated, underscoring the role of public universities in preparing the next generation of workers.

Additionally, representatives from Klamath County's Community Developmental Disabilities Program (CDDP) reported a staggering 176% growth in individuals needing support, stressing that current funding levels are insufficient. Heidi Gaither, a program manager, noted that flat funding has hindered their ability to hire and retain qualified staff, which is crucial for providing personalized support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

The discussions highlighted a critical juncture for both children's advocacy centers and developmental disability services in Oregon. Without immediate legislative action to secure funding, advocates warn of reduced staffing, increased wait times, and diminished access to essential services for some of the state's most vulnerable populations. The committee's decisions in the coming weeks will be pivotal in determining the future of these vital programs.